By Nasratu Kargbo
The first ever cocoa processing factory to be built in Sierra Leone has been commissioned on Saturday 23rd October 2021 at the Tissor Village in the Kenema District. The cocoa factory is capable to produce 4,000 metric tonnes, enough for the country to export.
According to the Executive Chairman of Sierra Leone Producing Marketing Board (SLPMB), Dr. James Vibbi the factory can produce an annual producing capacity can serve both the local and export market. He said the factory would add more value to cocoa production for the international market. He highlighted government’s plan to have one manufacturing plant in each of the districts in the country.
Speaking on the importance of such development, Vabbi stated that it will provide employment opportunities and bring further development to the local community. He also expressed delight for being part of such progress.
The Co-founder and CEO of the Capitol Foods Limited that produces the cocoa powder, Hamza Hashim explained that the company was one of the earliest post-war cocoa traders and exporters that were and still playing a crucial role in reviving the cocoa and coffee sector in the country.
He further explained that the Ministry of Agriculture through the Sierra Leone Agribusiness Development Fund SLADF project, had trained 2,831 farmers on different topics such as best agricultural practices, integrated pest control, and disease management technics.
In addition, he explained that “In 2018 Capitol Foods secured a $600,000 grant from SLADF towards financing and improving yields and quality standards. The project aims at working with rural farmers to improve their yields, in addition to establishing a Cocoa Mass Processing Line which will improve the value of products and improve prices for the farmers”.
The President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio who did the commissioning of the factory called on the private sector to invest in-country, encouraging the processing of local products in the country. The President stated that he was happy for such a development and hoped there will be transfer of skills, development in the locality and more revenue for the country.
He also noted the factory will add value to the cocoa business and aid the country’s economy.
Copyright © Politico Online 27/10/21
